What To Expect
At Coolsmiles Orthodontics, we will be expecting you and will plan our schedule to be available on time. We can’t wait to welcome you to our office. Marci or Danielle, our treatment coordinators will capture some digital photographs and take a digital panoramic film. They will gather important information in preparation for the clinical exam with Dr.David Amram or Dr. Justin Ohnigian. All problems and orthodontic treatment options will be explained and all of your questions will be answered. Please plan on being with us for approximately 30-60 minutes and there will be no fee for this visit.
The purpose of the initial orthodontic examination is to answer:
- What sort of orthodontic problem is present, if any?
- When is the proper time to begin treatment?
- What type of orthodontic treatment is indicated?
- How long will orthodontic treatment take?
- How much will the orthodontic treatment cost?
What’s Next?
If orthodontic treatment is indicated at this time than diagnostic records can be taken at the initial visit as well.
What are Diagnostic Records?
- Digital study models of your teeth with our impression less scanner.
- Any additional necessary diagnostic radiographs.
What is the cost of orthodontic treatment?
The cost of treatment depends upon the severity of the patient’s problem. The treatment coordinator will discuss fees and payment options, during the initial exam, if treatment is required. We have different payment plans to suit your budget and accept assignment from most insurance plans. We work hard to make orthodontics affordable.
What does my investment include?
Your investment includes:
- Orthodontic records, which consists of x-rays, study models and a personalized growth study workup to determine your treatment objectives.
- Active treatment fee for office visits related to whatever Phase of treatment is performed in the office. Appliances are durable and should last through the entire treatment period if the patient follows instructions. If appliances require replacement due to loss, breakage, misuse or failure to eliminate foods that cause damage, there will be an additional replacement fee.
- One set of final retainers for our comprehensive (Phase II) patients is provided upon completion of treatment. There is a replacement fee for each additional retainer that is lost or broken.
The Right Orthodontist for You
To help you find the right kind of professional when you are seeking orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists has developed this list of questions to ask.
1) To specialize in orthodontics, did you graduate from a two-to-three year residency program in orthodontics after you graduated from dental school?
2) Do you only do orthodontic treatment, or do you also offer other services like filling cavities, pulling teeth, doing root canals or treating gum disease?
3) If you provide a variety of services, can you refer me to an orthodontic specialist?
4) How do you remain current in the diagnosis and treatment of orthodontic problems?
5) Will my treatment be managed and monitored by an orthodontic specialist?
6) What treatment options are available to me? How do you determine what type of treatment options would work for me?
7) Does your practice offer payment plans and how do they work?
8) Do you accept my insurance?
9) How often will I need to come in for office visits?
10) Are you a member of the American Association of Orthodontists?
Assignment of Benefits
We accept assignment of benefits for most insurance plans. By doing this, the family’s out-of-pocket expense is substantially lower. If we do not accept assignment of benefits from your plan, we will be happy to file claims so that the insured can be reimbursed directly. Should there be any change in your policy prior to full payment of the insurance benefit, please contact our office immediately so adjustments may be made to your contract.
Office Hours
It is our goal to see you, on time, for your appointment. Time is scheduled to complete the necessary procedure, give information about the treatment and answer any questions you may have. We understand that your time is important to you. We work very hard to remain on schedule and still give our patients the quality of care they deserve.